Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Achalgarh – Legends

Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Achalgarh – Legends

Toe of Lord Shiva:

As per legend, it is said that the temple is built around a toe print of Lord Shiva. It is believed that when the earth was undergoing a massive upheaval in its early days, Lord Shiva pressed with his toe to keep it stable.

Nandi protected the temple by releasing bumble bees:

As per legend, it is said that the temple was protected by Nandi from getting destroyed by Muslim invaders by releasing millions of bumble bees towards them.

Mount Abu:

Mount Abu is also known as Ardha Kashi due to the presence of several temples. As per puranas, Varanasi is considered as the city of Lord Shiva and Mount Abu is considered as suburban of Lord Shiva. It is said that the Mount Abu is grounded due to the thumb of Lord Shiva. When the thumb of Lord Shiva will disappear, the mountain will also be destroyed on the same day.

Dharam Kanta:

There is a Dharam Kanta (Scales of Justice) built over the two intricately  carved pillars on the left side of the temple. It is a tradition that the King, taking over the charge, first receive the blessings of Achaleshwar Mahadev and then sit over Dharam Kanta and take an oath of being impartial to the people of his territory.

Roots of Shiva Linga:

It is said that no one knows about the depth of the roots of Shiva Linga. Once, devotees dug the ground to find out the depth of the roots, but they could not able to find the end and finally had to call of their excavation process.

Doorway to Naraka:

There is a semicircular pit in the sanctum, where the devotees pour water, but none of them has any idea where the water goes. The pit is believed to be a doorway to Naraka (Hell).

Buffalo Idols:

There are three large stone buffalos on the banks of a pond, located close to the temple. It is believed that these buffaloes are believed to be demons shot down by the King to stop from drinking the ghee in the pond.

Achaleshwar:

Achaleshwar is derived from two Sanskrit words Achal (Immovable) and Eshwar (Lord Shiva).